System and Method for Conducting a Raffle

ABSTRACT

A system and method is disclosed for conducting a raffle. In an embodiment, the method includes providing a plurality of unique raffle entry numbers that are sold over a communication network in exchange for donations. In particular, credit card information is received over the communication network from at least one purchaser of the plurality of unique raffle entry numbers. Moreover, a fund is generated comprising a portion of the donations. A winner is selected from the plurality of unique raffle entry numbers wherein the fund is distributed to a charitable organization via a credit authorization.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/126,146, filed on May 1, 2008, and incorporatedherein in, by referenced.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to fundraising and gaming, and moreparticularly to a system and method for fundraising and gaming via araffle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typically, in a raffle, a lottery is conducted wherein the prize is wonby one of numerous persons buying chances. Each chance is sold as apaper ticket having a unique identification number associated with it,which is also printed on a paper ticket stub. Accordingly, one or morewinning tickets are selected by randomly drawing one or more papertickets stubs, and wherein the winner(s) of the raffle receive a portionof the total monies received from the persons buying the chances.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system and method is provided for conducting a raffle. In anembodiment, the method includes providing a plurality of unique raffleentry numbers that are sold over a communication network in exchange fordonations. In particular, credit card information is received over thecommunication network from at least one purchaser of the plurality ofunique raffle entry numbers. Moreover, a fund is generated comprising aportion of the donations. A winner is selected from the plurality ofunique raffle entry numbers wherein the fund is distributed to acharitable organization via a credit authorization.

In another embodiment, a method is provided that includes providing aplurality of unique raffle entry numbers that are sold over acommunications network in exchange for donations. A fund or pot isgenerated comprising a portion of the donations. The winner of theraffle is selected from the plurality of unique raffle entry numbers.Furthermore, information is provided over the communication networkregarding the fund wherein the information is updated on a real timebasis.

In yet another embodiment, a method is provided that includes providinga plurality of unique raffle entry numbers that are offered for saleover a communication network from a single website in exchange fordonations. As such, a fund is generated comprising a portion of thedonations, and a winner of the fund is selected from the plurality ofunique raffle entry numbers. Moreover, an offer to sell unique raffleentry numbers for another charitable event is also provided from thewebsite.

In still yet another embodiment, a method is provided that includesproviding a plurality of unique raffle entry numbers that are sold inexchange for donations. A portion of the sales are used to generate afund that is distributed to a selected winner and a charitableorganization based, at least in art, on a selection made by at least onepurchaser.

Other embodiments, systems, methods, features, and advantages of thepresent invention will be, or will become, apparent to one havingordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings anddetailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems,methods, features, and advantages be within the scope of the presentinvention, and can be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be better understood with reference to the followingdrawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale,emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of theinvention. In the drawings, like reference numbers designatecorresponding parts throughout.

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a system for accessing,creating, managing, hosting and conducting a raffle in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an architecture for a rafflesystem depicting the relationship of the system layers involved in theimplementation of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a computer system that can beused in conjunction with the systems of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exemplary embodiment of information provided by the systemof FIG. 1 via a home or main webpage;

FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B) are an exemplary embodiment of information providedby the system of FIG. 1 via an events webpage linked to, among otherpages, the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 6(A) and 6(B) are an exemplary embodiment of information providedby the system of FIG. 1 via a mission webpage linked to, among otherpages, the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 7(A)-7(D) are an exemplary embodiment of information provided bythe system of FIG. 1 via a services webpage linked to, among otherpages, the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 8(A)-8(D) are an exemplary embodiment of information provided bythe system of FIG. 1 via a charities webpage linked to, among otherpages, the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) are an exemplary embodiment of information providedby the system of FIG. 1 via a news webpage linked to, among other pages,the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 10(A) and 10(B) are an exemplary embodiment of informationprovided by the system of FIG. 1 via a sign-up webpage linked to, amongother pages, the home or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary embodiment of information provided by the systemof FIG. 1 via a buy tickets webpage linked to, among other pages, thehome or main webpage of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 12(A) and 12(B) are an exemplary embodiment of informationprovided by the system of FIG. 1, via a receipt webpage linked directlyor indirectly to, among other pages, the buy ticket webpage having theinformation depicted in FIG. 11; and,

FIG. 13 is a simplified block diagram of another embodiment of a systemfor accessing, creating, managing, hosting and conducting a raffle inaccordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following descriptions of detailed embodiments are for exemplifyingthe principles and advantages of the inventions claimed herein. They arenot to be taken in any way as limitations on the scope of theinventions.

Turning to FIG. 1, a block diagram 100 is provided that depicts anexemplary system environment according to an exemplary embodiment inaccordance with the present invention. Block diagram 100 may include araffle system service provider 102 coupled to a network 104 such as theInternet. In an embodiment, the system environment may be aclient-server system environment. In another exemplary embodiment, thesystem may be an application service provider (ASP). Network 104 may inturn be coupled, in an exemplary embodiment, to one or more workstations106 of users 108.

In an embodiment, user 108 a may be referred to as an initiator. User108 b may be referred to as a beneficiary. User 108 c may be referred toas an entrant 108 c. User 108 d may be referred to as a winner. User 108e may be referred to as a visitor. Various other users, such as, e.g.,but not limited to, the browsing public may also access raffles hostedor managed on the raffle system service provider server 102.

An initiator 108 a may create a raffle using the raffle system serviceprovider 102. In one exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may payan initiation fee to the raffle service provider 102. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the user 108 a may create a raffle using theraffle system service provider 102, but the raffle may not begin or bepublicized until the raffle system service provider 102 approves of theraffle. In another exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may selectfrom a plurality of monetary currencies in which to conduct the raffle.In another exemplary embodiment, initiator 108 a may receivepreferential placement on a website for a raffle based on, e.g., but notlimited to, a particular raffle initiation fee or a listing fee. Inanother exemplary embodiment, beneficiary 108 b may receive preferentialplacement on a website for a raffle based on, e.g., but not limited to,a particular raffle initiation fee or a listing fee. In one exemplaryembodiment, the initiator 108 a may also be the beneficiary 108 b. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may also be the raffleservice provider 102. In another exemplary embodiment, initiator 108 amay receive preferential placement on, e.g., but not limited to, awebsite based on a commission level or auction bid level. In anotherexemplary embodiment, initiator 108 a may receive preferential placementon a website based on, e.g., but not limited to, an activity level orraffle popularity.

The terms and conditions of a particular raffle may be defined by theinitiator 108 a. In one exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a maydefine the number of winner(s) 108 d that there may be in the raffle. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may define the payoutratio split between the beneficiary 108 b and the at least one winner108 d. In another exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may definethe duration of the raffle drawing, which may be based on, e.g., but notlimited to, reaching a threshold amount of funds raised, a fixedcalendar date/time, or expiration of a period of time. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may define the party orparties responsible for any administration fee, such as, e.g., but notlimited to, beneficiary 108 b, winner 108 d, another party, and/or asplit thereof. In another exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a maydefine any bonus “odds” for early entrants 108 c to the raffle or for anentry sum exceeding a particular amount. In another exemplaryembodiment, the initiator 108 a defines the nature of a winning prize,which in an exemplary embodiment, may be money or an object. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a may define a start date ortime of a raffle. In another exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 amay define a cancellation term for the raffle. In another exemplaryembodiment, initiator 108 a may send email notifications or direct linksto others to draw their attention to the particular fundraising rafflecampaign.

A beneficiary 108 b may benefit from the revenues generated by a raffleconducted by the raffle service provider 102. In one exemplaryembodiment, the initiator 108 a may be the beneficiary 108 b. In oneexemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108 b may be selected by theinitiator 108 a. In another exemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108 bmay not be pre-determined. In another exemplary embodiment, thebeneficiary 108 b may be determined by performing a task. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108 b may be determined by payinga payment. In another exemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108 b may bedetermined by placing a bid at a threshold amount. In another exemplaryembodiment, the beneficiary 108 b may be determined by being selectedfrom a list of potential beneficiaries who each may pay a price toappear on the list. In another exemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108b may be determined by being selected from a list of potentialbeneficiaries who were randomly selected. In another exemplaryembodiment, the beneficiary 108 b may pay, e.g., but not limited to, araffle completion fee which may be a flat rate or an amount related tothe total money raised in the raffle. In another exemplary embodiment,there may be a plurality of beneficiaries. In another exemplaryembodiment, beneficiary 108 b may be selected or voted on from a list ofpotential beneficiaries by winner 108 d or multiple winners. In anotherexemplary embodiment, beneficiary 108 b may provide information ordocumentation as supporting evidence of the beneficiary's need for thefunds. In another exemplary embodiment, beneficiary 108 b may bedetermined by conducting an additional drawing. In another exemplaryembodiment, people seeking to be beneficiary 108 b may bid in an auctionprocess for the opportunity to be in a list of one or more potentialbeneficiaries. In another exemplary embodiment, beneficiary 108 b may beselected or may be voted on by the public. In another exemplaryembodiment, beneficiary 108 b may send a thank you note or email toentrant 108 c.

An entrant 108 c may pay money or a fee to the raffle service provider102 to enter the raffle. In one exemplary embodiment, entrant 108 c mayparticipate in a foreign currency raffle by converting the nativecurrency of entrant 108 c into the raffle currency, through the rafflesystem service provider 102, via an exchange rate. In another exemplaryembodiment, an entrant 108 c may become a beneficiary 108 b or a winner108 d. In another exemplary embodiment, raffle entrants 108 c may choosea list of potential beneficiaries. In another exemplary embodiment,raffle entrants 108 c may vote on a plurality of potentialbeneficiaries, and these votes may be weighted including, e.g., but notlimited to, being uniformly weighted or weighted by the entry amountpaid by entrant 108 c.

A winner 108 d may be the winner of the raffle that may be conducted bythe raffle service provider 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the winner108 d may pay money to the raffle service provider 102 to enter theraffle. In another exemplary embodiment, the winner 108 d may pay, e.g.,but not limited to, a raffle completion fee which may be, e.g., but notlimited to, a flat rate or an amount related to the total money raisedin the raffle. In another exemplary embodiment, the beneficiary 108 band winner 108 d may split a raffle completion fee which may be a flatrate or an amount related to the total money raised in the raffle. Inanother exemplary embodiment, there may be a plurality of winners. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the winner or winners may select from, ora vote on, a plurality of potential beneficiaries.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the raffle service provider 102may manage the creation, and conducting of various raffles created byinitiators 108 a. In one exemplary embodiment, the initiator 108 a mayalso be the raffle service provider 102.

A visitor 108 e may be a member of the public or a registered member ofthe raffle service provider 102. The visitor may or may not become anentrant 108 c. In one exemplary embodiment, visitors may choose a listof potential beneficiaries 108 b. In one exemplary embodiment, visitor108 e may view a raffle in progress and may vote for their choice ofbeneficiary 108 b from a list of a plurality of potential beneficiaries.In another exemplary embodiment, visitor 108 e may perform browse orsearch queries to list raffles by at least one criterion via the raffleservice provider 102. In an exemplary embodiment, raffles may besearched by, e.g., but not limited to, category, initiator location,religion, race, or by any specific keyword(s). In another exemplaryembodiment, visitor 108 e may send an email link to notify others of aparticular raffle campaign. In another exemplary embodiment, visitor 108e may become an initiator 108 a, a beneficiary 108 b, winner 108 d, oran entrant 108 c.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram 200 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of anarchitecture for an exemplary raffle management system includingrelationships of exemplary system architecture layers involved in anexemplary implementation of raffle service provider system 102 ofFIG. 1. Diagram 200 may include, in an exemplary embodiment, a hardware(HW) layer 202, an operating system (OS) 204, and one or moreapplications which may be application software programs such as, e.g.,but not limited to, a raffle management/hosting application 206 or otherapplications 208.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a block diagram 300illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a computer system 102, 106 thatmay be used in conjunction with any of the systems depicted in diagram100 of FIG. 1 or hardware layer 202 of diagram 200 of FIG. 2. Further,computer system 102, 106 of block diagram 300 may be used to execute anyof various methods or processes such as, e.g., but not limited to, thosediscussed below. FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a computersystem 102, 106 that may be used in computing devices such as, e.g., butnot limited to, client 106 and/or server 102 computing devices accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 depicts anexemplary embodiment of a computer system that may be used as clientdevice 106, or a server device 102, etc. The present invention (or anypart(s) or function(s) thereof) may be implemented using hardware,software, firmware, or a combination thereof and may be implemented inone or more computer systems or other processing systems. In fact, inone exemplary embodiment, the invention may be directed toward one ormore computer systems capable of carrying out the functionalitydescribed herein. An example of a computer system 300 is shown in FIG.3, depicting an exemplary embodiment of a block diagram of an exemplarycomputer system useful for implementing the present invention.Specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates an example computer 300, which in anexemplary embodiment may be, e.g., (but not limited to) a personalcomputer (PC) system running an operating system such as, e.g., (but notlimited to) WINDOWS MOBILE for POCKET PC, or MICROSOFT WINDOWSNT/98/2000/XP/CE/, etc. available from MICROSOFT Corporation of Redmond,Wash., U.S.A., SOLARIS from SUN Microsystems of Santa Clara, Calif.,U.S.A., OS/2 from IBM Corporation of Armonk, N.Y., U.S.A., Mac/OS fromAPPLE Corporation of Cupertino, Calif., U.S.A., etc., or any of variousversions of UNIX (a trademark of the Open Group of San Francisco,Calif., USA) including, e.g., LINUX, HPUX, IBM AIX, and SCO/UNIX, etc.However, the invention may not be limited to these platforms. Instead,the invention may be implemented on any appropriate computer systemrunning any appropriate operating system. In one exemplary embodiment,the present invention may be implemented on a computer system operatingas discussed herein. An exemplary computer system, computer 300 is shownin FIG. 3. Other components of the invention, such as, e.g., (but notlimited to) a computing device, a communications device, a telephone, apersonal digital assistant (PDA), a personal computer (PC), a handheldPC, client workstations, thin clients, thick clients, proxy servers,network communication servers, remote access devices, client computers,server computers, routers, web servers, data, media, audio, video,telephony or streaming technology servers, etc., may also be implementedusing a computer such as that shown in FIG. 3.

The computer system 300 may include one or more processors, such as,e.g., but not limited to, processor(s) 302. The processor(s) 302 may becoupled or connected to a communication infrastructure 304 (e.g., butnot limited to, a communications bus, a backplane, a mother board, across-over bar, or network, etc.). Various exemplary softwareembodiments may be described in terms of this exemplary computer system.After reading this description, it will become apparent to a personskilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the invention usingother computer systems and/or architectures.

Computer system 300 may include a display interface 318 that mayforward, e.g., but not limited to, graphics, text, and other data, etc.,from the communication infrastructure 304 (or from a frame buffer, etc.,not shown) for display on the display unit 320.

The computer system 300 may also include, e.g., but may not be limitedto, a main memory 306, which may include, e.g., but not limited to,random access memory (RAM), and a secondary memory 308, etc. Thesecondary memory 308 may include, for example, (but not limited to) astorage device 310 such as, e.g., but not limited to, a hard disk driveand/or a removable storage drive 312, representing, e.g., but notlimited to, a floppy diskette drive, a magnetic tape drive, an opticaldisk drive, a compact disk drive CD-ROM, a magneto-optical (MO) drive, adigital versatile disk (DVD), etc. The removable storage drive 312 may,e.g., but not limited to, read from and/or write to a removable storageunit 314 in a well known manner. Removable storage media unit 314, mayalso be called a program storage device or a computer program product,and may represent, e.g., but not limited to, a floppy disk, magnetictape, optical disk, CD-ROM disk, a MO device, a DVD disk, etc. which maybe read from and written to by removable storage device 312. As will beappreciated, the removable storage unit 314 may include a computerusable storage medium having stored therein computer software and/ordata.

In alternative exemplary embodiments, secondary memory 308 may includeother similar devices for allowing computer programs or otherinstructions to be loaded into computer system 300. Such devices mayinclude, for example, a removable storage unit 314 and an interface (notlabeled). Examples of such may include a program cartridge and cartridgeinterface (such as, e.g., but not limited to, those found in video gamedevices), a removable memory chip (such as, e.g., but not limited to, anerasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), or programmable readonly memory (PROM) and associated socket, and other removable storageunits 314 and interfaces, which may allow software and data to betransferred from the removable storage unit 314 to computer system 300.

Computer 300 may also include, e.g., but not limited to, an input device316 such as, e.g., (but not limited to) a mouse or other pointing devicesuch as a digitizer, and a keyboard or other data entry device (none ofwhich are labeled).

Computer 300 may also include, e.g., but not limited to, other outputdevices, such as, e.g., (but not limited to) display 320, and outputsubsystem display interface 318.

Computer 300 may also include, e.g., but not limited to, input/output(I/O) system 322 such as, e.g., (but not limited to) a communicationsinterface, a cable and communications path, (all not shown) etc., aswell as I/O devices 324, 326, 328, for example. These devices 324, 326,328, may include, e.g., but not limited to, a network interface card,and modems. The communications interface may allow software and data tobe transferred between computer system 300 and external devices over anetwork 104, as shown. Examples of the communications interface mayinclude, e.g., but may not be limited to, a modem, a network interface(such as, e.g., an Ethernet card), a communications port, a PersonalComputer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) or PC-Card slotand card, etc. Software and data transferred via communicationsinterface may be in the form of signals which may be electronic,electromagnetic, optical or other signals capable of being received bycommunications interface. These signals may be provided tocommunications interface via, e.g., but not limited to, a communicationspath (e.g., but not limited to, a channel). This channel may carrysignals, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, propagatedsignals, and may be implemented using, e.g., but not limited to, wire orcable, fiber optics, a telephone line, a cellular link, an radiofrequency (RF) link and other communications channels, etc.

In this document, the terms “computer program medium” and “computerreadable medium” may be used to generally refer to media such as, e.g.,but not limited to removable storage drive 314, a hard disk installed instorage device 310, and signals, etc. These computer program productsmay provide software to computer system 300. The invention may bedirected to such computer program products.

References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,”“various embodiments,” etc., may indicate that the embodiment(s) of theinvention so described may include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Further, repeated useof the phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in an exemplary embodiment,” donot necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although they may.

In the following description and claims, the terms “coupled” and“connected,” along with their derivatives, may be used. It should beunderstood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other.Rather, in particular embodiments, “connected” may be used to indicatethat two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contactwith each other. “Coupled” may mean that two or more elements are indirect physical or electrical contact. However, “coupled” may also meanthat two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, butyet still co-operate or interact with each other.

An algorithm is described directly or indirectly herein, and generally,considered to be a self-consistent sequence of acts or operationsleading to a desired result. These include physical manipulations ofphysical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantitiestake the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored,transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It hasproven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, torefer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters,terms, numbers or the like. It should be understood, however, that allof these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriatephysical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to thesequantities.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the followingdiscussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specificationdiscussions utilizing terms such as “processing,” “computing,”“calculating,” “determining,” or the like, refer to the action and/orprocesses of a computer or computing system, or similar electroniccomputing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented asphysical, such as electronic, quantities within the computing system'sregisters and/or memories into other data similarly represented asphysical quantities within the computing system's memories, registers orother such information storage, transmission or display devices.

In a similar manner, the term “processor” may refer to any device orportion of a device that processes electronic data from registers and/ormemory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data thatmay be stored in registers and/or memory. A “computing platform” maycomprise one or more processors.

Embodiments of the present invention may include apparatuses forperforming the operations herein. An apparatus may be speciallyconstructed for the desired purposes, or it may comprise a generalpurpose device selectively activated or reconfigured by a program storedin the device.

Embodiments of the invention may be implemented in one or a combinationof hardware, firmware, and software. Embodiments of the invention mayalso be implemented as instructions stored on a machine-readable medium,which may be read and executed by a computing platform to perform theoperations described herein. A machine-readable medium may include anymechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form readable bya machine (e.g., a computer). For example, a machine-readable medium mayinclude read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); magneticdisk storage media; optical storage media; flash memory devices;electrical, optical, acoustical or other form of propagated signals(e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.), andothers.

Computer programs (also called computer control logic), may includeobject oriented computer programs, and may be stored in main memory 306and/or the secondary memory 308 and/or removable storage media units314, also called computer program products. Such computer programs, whenexecuted, may enable the computer system 300 to perform the features ofthe present invention as discussed herein. In particular, the computerprograms, when executed, may enable the processor 302 to provide amethod to resolve conflicts during data synchronization according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, suchcomputer programs may represent controllers of the computer system 300.

In another exemplary embodiment, the invention may be directed to acomputer program product comprising a computer readable medium havingcontrol logic (computer software) stored therein. The control logic,when executed by the processor 302, may cause the processor 302 toperform the functions of the invention as described herein. In anotherexemplary embodiment where the invention may be implemented usingsoftware, the software may be stored in a computer program product andloaded into computer system 300 using, e.g., but not limited to,removable storage drive 312, storage device 310 or communicationsinterface, etc. The control logic (software), when executed by theprocessor 302, may cause the processor 302 to perform the functions ofthe invention as described herein. The computer software may run as astandalone software application program running atop an operatingsystem, or may be integrated into the operating system.

In yet another embodiment, the invention may be implemented primarily inhardware using, for example, but not limited to, hardware componentssuch as application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or morestate machines, etc. Implementation of the hardware state machine so asto perform the functions described herein will be apparent to personsskilled in the relevant art(s).

In another exemplary embodiment, the invention may be implementedprimarily in firmware.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the invention may be implementedusing a combination of any of, e.g., but not limited to, hardware,firmware, and software, etc.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention may also be implemented asinstructions stored on a machine-readable medium, which may be read andexecuted by a computing platform to perform the operations describedherein. A machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storingor transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., acomputer). For example, a machine-readable medium may include read onlymemory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); magnetic disk storage media;optical storage media; flash memory devices; electrical, optical,acoustical or other form of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves,infrared signals, digital signals, etc.), and others.

The exemplary embodiment of the present invention makes reference towired, or wireless networks. Wired networks include any of a widevariety of well known means for coupling voice and data communicationsdevices together. A brief discussion of various. exemplary wirelessnetwork technologies that may be used to implement the embodiments ofthe present invention now are discussed. The examples are non-limited.Exemplary wireless network types may include, e.g., but not limited to,code division multiple access (CDMA), spread spectrum wireless,orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), 1G, 2G, 3G wireless,Bluetooth, Infrared Data Association (IrDA), shared wireless accessprotocol (SWAP), “wireless fidelity” (Wi-Fi), WIMAX, and other IEEEstandard 802.11-compliant wireless local area network (LAN),802.16-compliant wide area network (WAN), and ultrawideband (UWB), etc.

Bluetooth is an emerging wireless technology promising to unify severalwireless technologies for use in low power radio frequency (RF)networks.

IrDA is a standard method for devices to communicate using infraredlight pulses, as promulgated by the Infrared Data Association from whichthe standard gets its name. Since IrDA devices use infrared light, theymay depend on being in line of sight with each other.

The exemplary embodiments of the present invention may make reference toWLANs. Examples of a WLAN may include a shared wireless access protocol(SWAP) developed by Home radio frequency (HomeRF), and wireless fidelity(Wi-Fi), a derivative of IEEE 802.11, advocated by the wireless ethernetcompatibility alliance (WECA). The IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN standardrefers to various technologies that adhere to one or more of variouswireless LAN standards. An IEEE 802.11 compliant wireless LAN may complywith any of one or more of the various IEEE 802.11 wireless LANstandards including, e.g., but not limited to, wireless LANs compliantwith IEEE std. 802.11a, b, d or g, such as, e.g., but not limited to,IEEE std. 802.11 a, b, d and g, (including, e.g., but not limited toIEEE 802.11g-2003, etc.), etc.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of general information providedby the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1, or other like electronicservice provider system, to one or more users 108 of FIG. 1. In anembodiment, the information 400 can be provided via a webpage.Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpage information 400 can serveas an index or table of contents to other documents or files stored andprovided by the raffle service provider 102.

The information 400 can include, but is not limited to, links 402 toother associated webpages provided by the raffle service providerwherein the webpages include the information depicted in FIGS. 6-11.Text or graphic links 404 and 408 can also be provided to specificindependent or separate raffle events hosted (i.e., provided) by theservice provider. One or more enlarged graphic links 410 can also beprovided regarding one or more featured raffle events hosted (i.e.,provided) by the service provider. A search box 412 can also be providedfor a user to enter text to search for a charity having a raffle eventhosted (i.e., provided) by the service provider. By clicking on button414, the service provider, via the computer system, electronicallyconducts the search and returns the search results to the user via awebpage.

As conventionally used by those having ordinary skill in the art, theterm link as used herein is a graphic or text provided on a webpagewherein, by the user selecting or clicking on the graphic or text,another webpage is displayed that is linked or associated with theselected graphic or text. For instance, by a user selecting link 404,the information depicted in FIG. 11 is provided on another webpage.Similarly, by a user selecting link 408, associated information isprovided to the user on another webpage.

FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B) depict an exemplary embodiment of events informationprovided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to one or moreusers 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 500 can beprovided via a webpage and includes events (i.e., raffles) hosted (i.e.,provided) by the service provider. Preferably, but not necessarily, thewebpage information 500 is linked to other documents or files stored andprovided by the raffle service provider 102 such as, but not limited to,webpages containing the information and links of FIGS. 4 and 6-11.

The information 500 can include, but is not necessarily limited to,statistics 502 regarding each raffle event hosted (i.e., provided) bythe service provider. The statistics 502 can include, but are notnecessarily limited to, the value of the pot or ticket purchases foreach event, the price of each raffle ticket for each event, the datewhen the raffle starts and the date when the raffle drawing is scheduledto occur for each event. Preferably, but not necessarily, the amount ofthe pot is updated in real-time. Stated another way, the amount of thepot for each event is electronically computed, via the computer system,to reflect its increase in value immediately after each raffle ticketpurchase.

FIGS. 6(A) and 6(B) depict an exemplary embodiment of missioninformation provided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to oneor more users 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 600 canbe provided via a webpage and includes the mission of the serviceprovider. Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpage information 600is linked to other documents or files stored and provided by the raffleservice provider 102 such as, but not limited to, webpages containingthe information and links of FIGS. 4-5 and 7-11.

FIGS. 7(A)-7(D) depict an exemplary embodiment of services informationprovided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to one or moreusers 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 700 can beprovided via a webpage and includes a listing and description of atleast some of the services offered and provided by the service provider.Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpage information 700 is linkedto other documents or files stored and provided by the raffle serviceprovider 102 such as, but not limited to, webpages containing theinformation and links of FIGS. 4-6 and 8-11.

FIGS. 8(A)-8(D) depict an exemplary embodiment of charities informationprovided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to one or moreusers 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 800 can beprovided via a webpage and includes a listing of charities offering orparticipating in a raffle via the service provider. Preferably, but notnecessarily, the webpage information 800 is linked to other documents orfiles stored and provided by the raffle service provider 102 such as,but not limited to, webpages containing the information and links ofFIGS. 4-7 and 9-11.

FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) depict an exemplary embodiment of news informationprovided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to one or moreusers 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 900 can beprovided via a webpage and includes news items pertaining to the raffleservices, clients and raffles provided via the service provider.Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpage information 900 is linkedto other documents or files stored and provided by the raffle serviceprovider 102 such as, but not limited to, webpages containing theinformation and links of FIGS. 4-8 and 10-1.

FIGS. 10(A) and 10(B) depict an exemplary embodiment of sign-upinformation provided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to oneor more users 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 1000 canbe provided via a webpage and includes fields for a user to enterinformation for registering to purchase raffle tickets. Preferably, butnot necessarily, the webpage information 1000 is linked to otherdocuments or files stored and provided by the raffle service provider102 such as, but not limited to, webpages containing the information andlinks of FIGS. 4-9 and 11.

FIG. 11 depicts an exemplary embodiment of buy tickets informationprovided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to one or moreusers 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 1100 can beprovided via a webpage and includes fields for a user to enterinformation for purchasing raffle tickets. In an embodiment, a box 1102is provided wherein a user can enter the number of raffle tickets to bepurchased. Conventional radio buttons 1104 are also provided for theuser to select from. Based upon the user's selection, the funds provided(i.e., donated) by the user are electronically calculated anddistributed to the selected charitable organization(s) based upon theportion of the funds remaining after the service provider and rafflewinner are paid. The funds can be distributed via a credit authorizationto the charitable organization(s) wherein the raffle service provider102 electronically credits a bank, credit, or other like account of thecharitable organization in a conventional manner over the communicationnetwork by using computer system 300 (FIG. 3).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpage information 1100 is linkedto other documents or files stored and provided by the raffle serviceprovider 102 such as, but not limited to, webpages containing theinformation and links of FIGS. 4-11. Further, button 1106 is linked,directly or indirectly, to a webpage having the information of FIG. 12.Therefore, after the user selects the number of tickets to purchase andhow the funds are to be distributed, the user clicks on button 1106.

FIGS. 12(A) and 12(B) depict an exemplary embodiment of receiptinformation provided by the raffle service provider 102 of FIG. 1 to oneor more users 108 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the information 1200 canbe provided via a webpage and a graphical representation of a raffleticket and a raffle entry number(s) 1202 associated with the ticket(s)purchased by a user. Preferably, but not necessarily, the webpageinformation 1200 is linked to other documents or files stored andprovided by the raffle service provider 102 such as, but not limited to,webpages containing the information and links of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 depicts another embodiment of a system for accessing, creating,managing, hosting and conducting a raffle in accordance with the presentinvention. The system 1300 includes: a computer system 102 havingsoftware for generating raffle tickets; kiosks or computers 108 forpurchasing tickets; Intranet service to allow purchases through theInternet, televisions, texting or other such remote terminals 1304; anda display 1302 to show the amount of the pot wherein, in an embodiment,the display is mounted in a casino.

In an embodiment, the system 1300 is similar to a conventional rafflehaving a split the pot theme wherein players purchase a ticket and atthe designated time a number is drawn and the winner keeps half of thepot and the house keeps the other half. Software similar to that used inthe system previously described can be used by a casino to run the gameinside the casino.

In the casino, additional prizes can be added such as a chance for afree night at the hotel, free dinner, or the like, to help enticepersons to play. Players can be asked to buy a ticket upon check in.Players could also purchase tickets via their laptops, blackberries ortv's 1304 in their rooms. On the casino floor kiosks or computers couldalso print tickets. In an embodiment, but not necessarily, hotels wouldhave an 11:00 p.m. (or other designated time) split the pot drawingparty, wherein the winning number would be drawn as well as consolationprizes.

It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of thepresent invention, particularly, any “preferred” embodiments, arepossible examples of implementations merely set forth for a clearunderstanding of the principles for the invention. Many variations andmodifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) of theinvention without substantially departing from the spirit and principlesof the invention. All such modifications are intended to be includedherein within the scope of this disclosure and the present invention.

1. A method comprising the steps of: (a) providing, via an electronicservice provider system, a plurality of unique raffle entry numbers; (b)electronically selling the plurality of unique raffle entry numbers overa communication network in exchange for donations; (c) electronicallyreceiving credit card information over the communication network from atleast one purchaser of the plurality of unique raffle entry numbers; (d)electronically generating a fund comprising a portion of the donations;(e) electronically selecting a winner from the plurality of uniqueraffle entry numbers; and, (f) electronically distributing at least aportion of the fund to a charitable organization via a creditauthorization made over the communication network via the electronicservice provider system to an account of the charitable organization. 2.The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of providinginformation over the communication network regarding the fund whereinthe information is updated on a real time basis.
 3. The method of claim1 further comprising the steps selling the unique raffle entry numbersfrom a website and offering to sell unique raffle entry numbers foranother charitable event from the same website.
 4. The method of claim 1wherein the fund distribution is based, at least in part, on a selectionmade by at least one purchaser of said unique raffle entry numbers, andone offered selection is to split the distribution evenly between two ormore charities.
 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step ofproviding a kiosk for selling at least a portion of the unique raffleentry numbers.
 6. A method comprising the steps of: (a) providing aplurality of unique raffle entry numbers; (b) selling the plurality ofunique raffle entry numbers over a communications network in exchangefor donations; (c) generating a fund comprising a portion of thedonations; (d) selecting a winner from the plurality of unique raffleentry numbers; and, (e) providing information over the communicationnetwork regarding the fund wherein the information is updated on a realtime basis.
 7. The method of claim 6 further comprising the step ofdistributing the fund to a charitable organization via a creditauthorization.
 8. The method of claim 6 further comprising the stepsselling the unique raffle entry numbers from a website and offering tosell unique raffle entry numbers for another charitable event from thesame website.
 9. The method of claim 6 further comprising the step ofdistributing at least a portion of the fund based, at least in part, ona selection made by at least one purchaser of said unique raffle entrynumbers, and one offered selection is to split the distribution evenlybetween two or more charities.
 10. The method of claim 6 furthercomprising the step of providing a kiosk for selling at least a portionof the unique raffle entry numbers.
 11. A method comprising the stepsof: (a) providing a plurality of unique raffle entry numbers; (b)offering to sell the unique raffle entry numbers over a communicationnetwork from a single website; (c) selling the plurality of uniqueraffle entry numbers in exchange for donations; (d) generating a fundcomprising a portion of the donations; (e) selecting a winner from theplurality of unique raffle entry numbers; and, (f) offering to sellunique raffle entry numbers for another event from the website.
 12. Themethod of claim 11 further comprising the step of distributing the fundto a charitable organization via a credit authorization.
 13. The methodof claim 11 further comprising the step of providing information overthe communication network regarding the fund wherein the information isupdated on a real time basis.
 14. The method of claim 11 furthercomprising the step of distributing at least a portion of the fund to acharitable organization based, at least in part, on a selection made byat least one purchaser of said unique raffle entry numbers, and oneoffered selection is to split the distribution evenly between two ormore charities.
 15. The method of claim 11 further comprising the stepof providing a kiosk for selling at least a portion of the unique raffleentry numbers.
 16. A method comprising the steps of: (a) providing aplurality of unique raffle entry numbers; (b) selling the plurality ofunique raffle entry numbers in exchange for donations; (c) receiving aselection by at least one purchaser from the plurality of charitableorganizations; (d) generating a fund comprising a portion of thedonations; (e) selecting a winner from the plurality of unique raffleentry numbers; and, (f) distributing the fund to the plurality ofcharitable organizations based, at least in part, on the selection madeby the at least one purchaser, and one offered selection is to split thedistribution evenly between two or more charities.
 17. The method ofclaim 16 wherein the step of distributing the fund includes the step ofcrediting the account of at least one of the plurality of charitableorganizations via a credit authorization.
 18. The method of claim 16further comprising the step of providing information over thecommunication network regarding the fund wherein the information isupdated on a real time basis.
 19. The method of claim 16 furthercomprising the steps of providing a website for selling the uniqueraffle entry numbers and offering to sell unique raffle entry numbersfor another charitable event from the same website.
 20. The method ofclaim 16 further comprising the step of providing a kiosk for selling atleast a portion of the unique raffle entry numbers.